Rachel Carson 1907–1964
Worked to Help the Environment
Rachel Carson began to write about nature when she was a girl in Pennsylvania. Carson also liked studying science and the ocean. After going to college, she became a scientist.
Carson wrote many books about nature. Her most famous book is called Silent Spring. The book told how a chemical used to kill insects that eat crops was also killing birds. Carson wrote that the chemical, called DDT, harmed animals, plants, and even people.
Many people read her book and took action against DDT. In 1972, laws were made that said DDT could not be used anymore. Rachel Carson's books caused many people to work to protect the environment from DDT and other dangers.
Critical Thinking
What actions did people take after reading Rachel Carson's book, Silent Spring?